The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized Novavax’s updated protein-based Covid vaccine for emergency use in individuals aged 12 and older. This move clears the way for the vaccine to compete with Pfizer and Moderna’s shots in the upcoming fall and winter seasons.
The newly authorized Novavax vaccine targets the Omicron subvariant JN.1, which was prevalent in the U.S. earlier in the year, though it currently only accounts for 0.2% of cases. Despite the variant’s decline, Novavax assures that their vaccine provides robust protection against related strains that are now more dominant in the U.S., including KP.2.3, KP.3, KP.3.1.1, and LB.1.
Unlike the mRNA vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna, which can be rapidly updated, Novavax’s vaccine uses protein-based technology, a tried-and-tested method used in other vaccines like those for hepatitis B and shingles. This makes it an attractive alternative for individuals seeking non-mRNA options.
“We expect our updated vaccine to be broadly available across thousands of U.S. locations, including retail and independent pharmacies as well as regional grocers,” said Novavax CEO John Jacobs in a statement. The news boosted Novavax’s shares by over 8%.
This FDA approval follows last week’s green light for new mRNA vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna, which target a different offshoot of JN.1 called KP.2. Public health officials see the Novavax shot as a valuable option for those hesitant to use the newer mRNA technology.
However, it’s uncertain how many Americans will seek the new vaccines this fall, given that only around 22.5% of U.S. adults received the latest Covid boosters that were released last year.